Complete Guide: How to Rent a Car in the UAE as a Tourist (2025)
Discover the complete guide to renting a car in UAE as a tourist. Learn about driving licence requirements, deposits, insurance, and essential documents needed in 2025.
By Vadim Kouznetsov, published
Planning to drive during your UAE visit? This guide walks you through everything about renting a car in the UAE, from licence requirements to insurance details.
Which Driving Licences Are Valid in the UAE?
The UAE accepts driving licences from more than 30 countries for visitors. If you’re from these nations, you can drive with your valid home licence:
- United Kingdom
- United States
- Canada
- Germany
- South Korea
- France
- Japan
For GCC Visitors: Driving licences from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman are valid for tourists. However, residents must convert their licence to a UAE one.
International Driving Permit Requirements
Visitors whose countries aren’t on the UAE’s accepted list must hold:
- A valid International Driving Permit (IDP)
- A home country licence held for at least 12 months
Age Requirements for Car Rental
- Standard vehicles: Minimum age 21 years
- Luxury and sports cars: Minimum age 25 years
Essential Documents for Car Rental
Before heading to a rental agency, prepare these documents:
- Valid passport
- Tourist visa
- Driving licence or IDP
- Credit card for deposit
Understanding Rental Deposits
Rental companies block a security deposit on your credit card to cover:
- Potential damage costs
- Traffic fines
- Salik (toll) charges
Important deposit information:
- Amount varies by vehicle type
- Should be blocked, not charged
- Released within 30 days after return
- Dispute resolution available through DED
Car Insurance Guidelines
Basic rental packages include:
- Mandatory third-party coverage
- Optional additional insurance
- Special requirements for cross-border travel
Where to Rent Cars in the UAE
Choose from various rental options:
- Airport locations:
- Dubai International Airport (DXB)
- Zayed International Airport
- Shopping mall branches
- Smart rental apps:
Cross-Border Travel
Planning to drive to other GCC countries?
- Most rentals restrict cross-border travel
- Oman trips require:
- No Objection Certificate
- Additional documentation
- Extended insurance coverage
Tips for Smooth Car Rental
- Research rental companies beforehand
- Compare prices across providers
- Check insurance coverage options
- Read customer reviews
- Verify deposit policies
Contact leading car rental providers or visit official UAE government websites for the latest updates and detailed information about driving requirements.
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